Jersey International Motoring Festival wanted to bring Richard Hammond to the island to film an episode of his show but organisers say it fell through due to a lack of government funding.

The event planned to put Jersey on the map this year, for the biggest and most ambitious JIMF in its 24-year history. However, organisers say several plans were not possible without the government's support.

It was hoped that 2024's Jersey International Motoring Festival would be the first event of its kind in the British Isles to run entirely on sustainable fuel.

Jersey also had the opportunity to welcome the former Top Gear presenter and current Grand Tour star Richard Hammond to the island to film an episode of Series Three of 'Richard Hammond's Workshop' on Discovery+.

Both opportunities were missed. 

One of the organisers, Robert Surcouf, said: "Sadly, the government was unable to provide funding for this event."

Richard Hammond. Credit: Sky News

However, the festival has announced its return for its 25th Anniversary weekend next year, from 5 to 8 June 2025.

The £120,000 event attracts more than 40,000 people to People's Park annually, with 1,000 people travelling to Jersey specifically for the International Motoring Show.

Vehicles from Formula One cars to convoys of Porsches, Ford Mustangs and motocross bikes parade around the avenue and the parks, showing a unique display to Jersey's islanders and visitors.

Steve Salmon, Event Lead Coordinator, says the JIMF team is a small group of volunteers who work year-round to produce the festival.

"We are incredibly grateful to our title sponsors Rubis, along with the Jersey Development Company, Condor Ferries and AAL Recycling. Their support was essential to making this event happen in 2024.

We are hopeful that positive steps can be made in the next 12 months to secure the festival's future and allow it to run into its 25th year and beyond.

"Our desire is to grow the event, not only locally but also overseas, to attract more competitors, exhibitors, and spectators to the island, further supporting our tourism and hospitality industries."

Credit: George Marriot